First Laser Action Observed From Optically Pumped ${{\rm CH}_{3}}{^{17}{\rm OH}}$

The
${{\rm CH}_{3}}{^{17}{\rm OH}}$
isotopic form of methanol has been investigated as a far-infrared laser medium for the first time. Using two distinct experimental systems, this investigation has resulted in the discovery of twelve far-infrared laser emissions that range in wavelength from 69.7 to 642.9
$\mu{\rm m}$
. Along with the wavelength, each laser emission is reported with its optimal operating pressure and relative intensity. The frequency for the 69.7
$\mu{\rm m}$
line was measured to be
$4\,302\,957.7 {\pm}{\rm 1.0}~{\rm MHz}$
and is reported with the
${\rm CO}_{2}$
pump laser's offset frequency relative to its center frequency.